Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Gillespie
Hi Jennifer, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Nothing but the grace and favor of GOD got me where I am today! After 20 + years of being in the Beauty Industry, I was graced to move on to nurture my calling in the Culinary Arts field. I concentrated on baked goods and sweet treats from Early 2014 until the Summer of 2017. From that point on, my company has been providing Full Service Catering! Life’s happenings definitely played a part in deciding to expand, and in hindsight it was the push I didn’t know I needed!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’d be lying, if I told you it’s ALL been easy! Don’t get me wrong, there have been some BUTTERY smooth moments…but there’s also been ROCKY roads! The biggest challenges I’ve experienced have to be the fact that A) I’m not an area native! I relocated from my hometown, and B) I was known for my Beauty Industry connections for years. Transitioning wasn’t that easy! It was also a bit of a struggle to find my niche and THRIVE there, instead of trying to please EVERY potential customer. Finding exactly who I am as a Culinary Artist has been a tremendous blessing to me, and my company!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m professionally known as Chef J Rae’Chel! I operate as the Executive Chef and Culinary Artist for an up and coming Full Service Catering Company that immediately serves West Tennessee, Northern Mississippi, and Central Arkansas. I specialize in creating elaborate food displays that help enhance the vision and vibe of the event or occasion! We are most proud of the fact that our presentation isn’t just pleasing to the eye, but to the palate, as well. The jaw dropping reactions, the picture taking, when that first bite makes them dance …WE LOVE IT ALL!! We also thrive on presenting somewhat of a “Healthy Twist on Feel Good Food”, as some of our traditions and staples may not be the best for us! And of course…I’m definitely bringing the FLAVOR to Fine Dining!
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Pay attention to the God inside of you, and not your neighbor’s Social Media! What you see is not always what you get! Don’t waste time trying to figure what you’re doing wrong..or what they’re doing to get where they are. Rather, simply concentrate on the moment and space you’re in, currently. OWN THAT SPACE! Remember that it’s not a race to reach the top…that’s subjective, anyway!! Everyone’s idea of “The Top” is going to vary, based on values and beliefs!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cdtandmore.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cdtandmore
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.gillespie.549
- Other: https://linktr.ee/cdtandmore
Image Credits
Quenlee Photography
Quinton R. Yates